Hitting headline NHS target by the end of this parliament "is not going to happen"

Responding to new analysis from the Health Foundation on NHS waiting times, the acute and ambulance network director at the NHS Alliance, Matthew Hopkins, said:
 
"These findings underline the need for an honest conversation about the 18-week target, which hasn’t been hit for a decade.

"Given the severe financial pressures in the NHS, and a relentless rise in demand, it is time to acknowledge that getting to 92% of patients treated within 18 weeks by the end of this parliament is not going to happen.  

"Full credit to local leaders and frontline staff for the progress that’s been made, while also focusing on other key areas including A&E, ambulance response times and GP access.

"They are also working to deliver the three shifts outlined in the 10-Year Health Plan – from hospital to community, analogue to digital and treatment to prevention.

"Now with a change of prime minister and secretary of state, attention is turning to reform of social care, maternity and early years, and frailty services. 

"We can’t have everything, everywhere all at once.

"Local NHS leaders are keenly aware of the pain and distress caused by long delays for planned care. 

"They stand ready to build on the progress that’s been achieved, but when policy becomes disconnected from operational reality it’s patients who pay the price. 

"Let’s be honest about where we can get to with the resources available, so there is a clear understanding of what can and cannot be achieved."